Fuel filter replacement

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Nov 28, 2016 | 10:14 AM

Captzeos

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Fuel filter replacement

I have an early 2003 w/automatic transmission. Will I need to remove an exhaust pipes to replace the fuel filter? If so, what should I be aware of in doing so. Gaskets, torque specs for example comes to mind, but difficulties as well. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Nov 28, 2016 | 10:25 AM

midnight01

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From: Fort Myers Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captzeos

That all depends, for mine I had to maneuver my hands around the exhaust pipe. When I do it again I will be removing the pipe to make it easier. Its not that its hard to get to, its getting the fuel line disconnects in there and able to hold one side of the fuel filter while sliding the disconnect into it and pulling at the same time.

Nov 28, 2016 | 01:44 PM

Captzeos

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Quote:

Originally Posted by midnight01

Thanks Midnight01,
Well I just looked over the situation and I see what you mean. I wish I knew the torque on the exhaust bolts, but testing the tightness of one of the bolts with my torque wrench it clicked at 30 ft. lbs. (not sure if thats an accurate way of finding out or not), but I would have guessed higher. Wish me luck! Hey nothing like OJT!

Nov 28, 2016 | 01:50 PM

midnight01

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From: Fort Myers Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captzeos

The hpipe to cat bolts you can use your best judgement in my opinion as long as they are tight. Just take your time and it will be easy. If you need to remove the wheel for a little extra room as well go for it. Loosen the bolts on the hpipe to cat just enough so you can push it a little out of the way too. OR just remove them and move it further out. Like I said I did mine with it still installed and it only added a few extra minutes to the install. Just use a stubby 10mm wrench or a small 10mm socket on your 1/4 inch and be prepared to only move the bolt a half inch at a time lol. IMPORTANT!! Even if you relieve the pressure from the fuel line the filter will still have quite a bit of gas in it so make sure once it is loose you grab a rag to soak some of it up while you take it down. Also watch all the dirty gas you will pour out of it, you will be disgusted. After the install turn the key to the on but do not start, wait 5 seconds and turn it off, then do it again, then start her up. Check for leaks and if there is none you are good to go.

Last edited by midnight01; Nov 28, 2016 at 01:54 PM.

Nov 28, 2016 | 03:28 PM

StingrayRebel

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you should be able to replace it fairly easily without removing the exhaust, I would at least try to do it that way first

Nov 28, 2016 | 03:52 PM

GUSTO14

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From: eastern NC

Just be sure you have the correct fuel line disconnect tool on hand before getting started. You don't need a complete set such as this one by Lisle, but you will need at least a basic tool to get the job done.